Julija Iliuch's book 'My Women' – about everyday fears and often unseen experiences
Julija Iliuch's book 'My Women' discusses the experiences of women during wartime, highlighting their fears and resilience.
Julija Iliuch's book 'My Women' provides a poignant exploration of the female experience during war, illustrating the often overlooked fears and realities that women face. The book, beautifully illustrated by Iryna Sažynska, has already been translated into ten languages, including Lithuanian, demonstrating a growing international interest in these narratives. Moreover, the book has gained recognition in Ukraine, being awarded the title of BBC's Book of the Year for 2024, underscoring its impact and relevance in the current socio-political climate.
In the book, Iliuch reflects on her own experiences and motivations for focusing on women’s perspectives during wartime. Since the onset of the war in Ukraine in 2014, Iliuch has channeled her fears and experiences into her writing, dedicating herself to capturing the complexities of the female experience in the context of conflict. Her personal journey includes volunteering to support the Ukrainian army by preparing tactical medical kits for soldiers, which adds a layer of authenticity and urgency to her storytelling.
The upcoming event at the Vilnius Book Fair, where Iliuch will be present, presents an opportunity for deeper engagement with her work and discussions on women's roles in wartime. As literature increasingly serves as a platform for addressing critical issues, Iliuch's work stands out for its emotional depth and commitment to raising awareness about the often-neglected voices of women in war, inspiring both empathy and action among readers and audiences.